Spermicide for Birth Control - Topic Overview

Effectiveness in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Spermicides used alone do not protect against STIs,
including infection with the
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). You must use a
condom for the best possible STI protection.

Most spermicides contain a
chemical called nonoxynol-9 (N9). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
warns that N9 in vaginal contraceptives and spermicides may irritate the lining
of the vagina or rectum. This may increase the risk of getting HIV/AIDS from an
infected partner.

They are safe for
women who have other health problems (birth control that contains estrogen
makes some health conditions worse).

Disadvantages of spermicides

Failure rates for
barrier methods are higher than for most other methods of birth control. Other
disadvantages include the following:

Spermicides cause an extra discharge from the vagina. Women who
use spermicides should not douche for at least 8 hours after intercourse so
that the spermicide continues to work to prevent pregnancy. (Douching is not
recommended for women in general.)

Some people are allergic to
nonoxynol-9, the active ingredient in most spermicides. They can develop
itching or sores in the vagina or on the penis, which make it more likely that
HIV can be passed from an infected person during sex.

The
nonoxynol-9 in spermicides may also increase the risk of getting HIV/AIDS from
an infected partner.

Some people are embarrassed to use spermicide
and a barrier method or worry that it may interrupt foreplay or intercourse.
This can create a problem with using it every time they have sex.

This information is produced and provided by the National
Cancer
Institute (NCI). The information in this topic may have changed since it was written. For the most current information, contact the National
Cancer
Institute via the Internet web site at http://
cancer
.gov or call 1-800-4-CANCER.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated:
May 03, 2012

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.
Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this
information.